The Nebraska Department of Corrections Friday named Robert Madsen the new warden of the Nebraska State Penitentiary in Lincoln, replacing Rich Cruickshank, who's been called-up to active duty in the Nebraska National Guard for one-year.

Corrections Director Scott Frakes said filling the position on a temporary basis would not maintain the quality of leadership needed.

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"Appointing people in a temporary capacity as warden for an extended period o time would hinder the agency's efforts to transform the correctional system," said Frakes. "The permanent assignment of wardens ensures clear leadership and allows progress to continue."

Frakes said when Cruickshank's tour of duty is over, Corrections will evaluate the needs of the agency and place him where his talents are best suited.

Madsen is currently the warden of the Community Corrections Center in Lincoln, and has bee with the department for 28 years.

Charles West, currently warden at the Community Corrections Center in Omaha will assume Madsen's duties at the Lincoln facility, and Ryan Mahr will expand his duties at the Nebraska Correctional Youth Facility to oversee Omaha Community Corrections as well.

Frakes said in 2016, 60 employees of the Nebraska Department of Corrections were active National Guard members.